Introduction

In the wake of a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar, prompt aid has poured in from neighboring nations such as China, Russia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Meanwhile, the United States—historically one of the world’s largest contributors to foreign aid—has yet to provide substantial assistance.

Impact of the Earthquake

The quake, which rattled the country’s densely populated heart on Friday, resulted in the tragic loss of over 1,700 lives, according to Myanmar’s military government. Experts predict the casualty figures will continue to rise as rescuers reach remote areas and unearth bodies buried under rubble.

Response from Neighboring Nations

While China has swiftly deployed 126 rescue personnel, including trained dogs and essential medical supplies, the U.S. response appears sluggish. A three-member team from the U.S. Agency for International Development (U.S.A.I.D.) is not expected to arrive until Wednesday, raising concerns among humanitarian workers regarding the overall effectiveness of the American relief efforts under the current administration.

Contrasting Relief Efforts

In a stark contrast to the U.S.’s hesitance, China has pledged approximately $14 million in relief. According to Michael Schiffer, a former assistant administrator at U.S.A.I.D., the absence of American aid risks sending a damaging signal, potentially undermining American diplomatic influence in the region.

U.S. Aid Commitments

Officially, the U.S. Embassy in Myanmar announced a commitment to provide up to $2 million in aid, which will be channeled through local humanitarian organizations. However, the infrastructure necessary for effective aid distribution in Myanmar has been severely compromised. The timing and logistical challenges are heightened by recent budget cuts, with significant staffing reductions affecting the agency's capacity to respond promptly.

Layoffs at U.S.A.I.D.

Employees at U.S.A.I.D. have faced layoffs in recent weeks, which have crippled the agency’s disaster response capabilities. Many who could have been dispatched for immediate aid coordination have lost their positions or been redirected.

Complicated Response Strategy

The response strategy from the U.S. has been further complicated by ongoing civil strife. Since the military coup in 2021, Myanmar’s junta has restricted Western influence, leading to a complex humanitarian landscape significantly impacted by a brutal internal conflict. Despite these challenges, the military leadership has expressed willingness to welcome aid from various sources, including those they have historically opposed.

Potential Risks of Aid Diversion

Experts warn that aid could potentially be diverted by the military to bolster its resources amid ongoing resistance from various opposition groups. Eyewitnesses from Mandalay reported distress at seeing soldiers at the disaster scene, seemingly indifferent to the crisis while civilians worked desperately to uncover survivors.

U.S. Government Assurance

While Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reassured the public that the U.S. will continue to engage in humanitarian efforts, he acknowledged that the scope of assistance would be considerably reduced. The shifting political landscape and the dramatic cuts to foreign aid make the already fragile situation in Myanmar even more precarious.

International Search-and-Rescue Efforts

As Chinese and Russian teams continue their search-and-rescue missions, a Belgian contingent is also making its way to assist in recovery efforts. The question remains: will the United States step up in a timely manner, or will the opportunity to make a meaningful impact slip through its fingers?